The effects of basic fibroblast growth factor on postoperative mastoid cavity problems.

OBJECTIVES

To present the effects of basic fibroblast growth factor on intractable cavity problems and discuss the mechanisms of its effects.

METHODS

We treated three ears with postoperative open cavities. All three cases had suffered from chronic discharge of the ear for 7, 10, and 30 years, respectively; 100 microg/ml of trafermin (genetic recombination) solution, as basic fibroblast growth factor, was dropped into the open cavity once daily. If bacterial and/or fungal infection was observed, antibiotics and/or antifungal agents were administered locally twice daily.

RESULTS

The cavities epithelialized and were cured within 2 months using this treatment.

CONCLUSION

Our results suggest that basic fibroblast growth factor stimulates the proliferation and differentiation of keratinocytes, fibroblasts, and endothelial cells, leading to accelerated wound healing. The basic fibroblast growth factor agent appears to be highly effective in treating intractable cavity problems.